DC power problem

[BGHip]

I have recently purchased a 2006 Timberlodge manufactured by Adventure. My battery operates a slide-out only.
Shouldn't my heat/furnance, lights etc. also be operating?
When I'm using AC all works?
I am a bit confused, and any assistance would be appreciated.

[Dadeaux]

Is your rig equipped with an converter or inverter it's possible that a feed on it has been disabled by a breaker of loose connection.

[garym114]

Yes, all 12v stuff should be operating but won't if your battery disconnect switch is open.
First thing to check.

[Ray,IN]

Since the slide motor works this is probably a converter issue. The slide power does not normally pass through the converter . If you have a 12VDC tester or VOM, check for power at the fuses in the converter. If no power is present go to the battery compartment and look for a circuit breaker in the positive cable to the converter. It should have a tiny button on one end/side to reset.

[bluepill]

Troubleshooting motor home electrics is tricky because they are much more complex than just a home 120 volt system or regular auto/truck 12 volt system.

You will need some basic knowledge of electrical troubleshooting and basic testing tools - a test light and cheap voltmeter should be sufficient. It can be fun to learn, and the 12 volt side of the system is fairly safe to work on - it can't electrocute you, but a short circuit with mulitple batteries can cause a lot of damage, including explosion and sulfuric acid spray. ALWAYS WEAR EYE PROTECTION AROUND THE BATTERIES - A full face shield is even better. Be SURE that 120 volts "Shore Power" is NOT CONNECTED, and be SURE that the inverter is OFF so that there is no 120 volt being produced. The chance of being electrocuted by 120 volts is much greater in a motor home with all the grounded metal around than in your home that has wood and drywall to insulate you.


One trick that has helped me throughout the years when tracing wiring diagrams for a particular circuit is to copy or print out a page of the diagram and trace the particular circuit lines with color highlighter markers. Example: pink for positive power, green for ground. Just makes it easier to follow, especially with a diagram that has many circuits on it.

["007"]

Welcome BGHip to irv2.
Check this LINK out will explain basic's of RV power systems.
Some forums have stickies that have good information within them.
Enjoy the forums and do post often.

[RV Wizard]

First thing to check is that you have a good ground to frame from the battery. Then check to be sure all positive cables are connected to battery and circuit breakers are good near the battery are not tripped.